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Sunday, November 30, 2008
Do you shop for charity?
The Atlanta Journal-Constitution
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No lines, no shoving: the at-home alternative to mall madness.
It seems Black Friday was a bit subdued this year, and at some places the AJC visited on Saturday, clerks outnumbered customers.
Liquidators aren’t having much luck moving merchandise, although e-tailers are gearing up for what they hope will be a robust Cyber Monday.
I’m invited to a private shopping event Monday night. Held in someone’s home, the event features wares from a number of small-business owners. And it will benefit charity. A portion of sales will be donated to an organization called Reconnecting Families, which works with people whose lives have been affected by drug abuse.
With everyone keeping a close eye on their wallets these days, I’m interested to witness this low-key alternative to mall madness. We’ve all been to home parties where the hostess was hawking products from Pampered Chef, Southern Living at Home, Arbonne and the like.
The idea of introducing a charitable angle during uncertain economic times is interesting, and we’ll see whether that impacts how many items are sold. Stay tuned.
Would you be more willing to spend money this holiday season if you knew a portion of your dollars would benefit charity?
Have you shopped at similar at-home parties, or hosted one? Do you feel pressured into buying stuff you don’t need, or do you enjoy the personal attention of at-home commerce?
Merchants, does the at-home business model impact your bottom line?
